Singapore ETF Expense Ratio 2026

Singapore ETF Expense Ratio 2026 – see full definition below. For informational purposes only – not financial advice.

Table of Contents
  1. How Expense Ratios Affect ETF Returns in Singapore
  2. Key Singapore ETF Expense Ratios for 2026
  3. SGX vs London vs US-Listed ETFs: Cost Comparison
  4. Minimising ETF Costs: Beyond the Expense Ratio

How Expense Ratios Affect ETF Returns in Singapore

An expense ratio of 1% versus 0.2% may seem small, but over 20 years on a S$100,000 investment, the difference compounds significantly. At 7% gross annual return: a 0.2% TER ETF grows to approximately S$358,000; a 1.0% TER ETF grows to only S$304,000 — a S$54,000 difference attributable entirely to fees. Expense ratios are automatically deducted from the fund NAV daily — they do not appear as a separate charge on your brokerage statement but silently reduce your returns every day.

Key Singapore ETF Expense Ratios for 2026

Representative expense ratios for popular ETFs (as at early 2026): CSPX (iShares Core S&P 500, USD, London): 0.07%. VWRA (Vanguard FTSE All-World, USD, London): 0.22%. ES3 (SPDR STI ETF, SGD, SGX): 0.30%. A35 (ABF Singapore Bond Index Fund, SGD, SGX): 0.24%. CLR (NikkoAM-STC Asia REIT ETF, SGD, SGX): approximately 0.55%. Always verify the current TER on the fund provider factsheet as expense ratios can change annually.

SGX vs London vs US-Listed ETFs: Cost Comparison

Singapore investors often choose between SGX-listed ETFs (SGD-denominated, CPFIS/SRS eligible) and offshore ETFs (USD-denominated, London or US exchanges). Offshore ETFs generally have lower expense ratios — CSPX at 0.07% versus comparable SGX-listed ETFs — but come with USD currency risk and may not be CPFIS-eligible. For CPF OA investments, only CPFIS-approved funds are permitted (typically SGX-listed ETFs). For SRS and cash accounts, offshore ETFs via Interactive Brokers or Saxo offer lower TER.

Minimising ETF Costs: Beyond the Expense Ratio

The expense ratio is not the only cost. Also consider: Bid-ask spread — less liquid ETFs on SGX may have wider spreads. Brokerage fees — FSMOne charges 0.08% (min S$10); Tiger Brokers and Moomoo offer lower fees for some ETFs. Tracking error — some ETFs do not perfectly replicate their index. Dividend withholding tax — Ireland-domiciled ETFs (CSPX, VWRA) benefit from the Ireland-US tax treaty, reducing US dividend withholding from 30% to 15%.

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FAQ: Singapore ETF Expense Ratio 2026

What is a low expense ratio for a Singapore ETF?
Below 0.30% is generally considered low. CSPX at 0.07% and VWRA at 0.22% are among the lowest-cost options for global equity exposure, though these are London-listed rather than SGX-listed.
Are lower expense ratio ETFs always better?
Generally yes for passive index ETFs tracking the same index. But also check tracking error, liquidity, dividend tax treatment, and CPFIS/SRS eligibility.
Do Singapore Savings Bonds (SSBs) have expense ratios?
No. SSBs are direct government bonds with no management fee or expense ratio. Returns are the full stated interest rate.
Which Singapore ETFs are eligible for CPF Investment Scheme (CPFIS)?
CPFIS-eligible ETFs must be SGX-listed and approved by CPF Board. Eligible ETFs include ES3 (STI ETF), A35 (Singapore Bond Index), and certain unit trusts. London-listed ETFs like CSPX and VWRA are not CPFIS-eligible.
How do I find the expense ratio of a Singapore ETF?
On the ETF provider factsheet, SGX ETF screener, or platforms like FSMOne and Endowus. The TER is stated as an annual percentage and disclosed in the fund semi-annual or annual report.